How does total hip replacement work?

The surgeon removes the damaged femoral head and prepares the socket. A stem sits inside the thigh bone and carries a new ball. A shell lines the socket, with a bearing surface between the ball and shell to allow movement. A titanium implant may encourage bone attachment; some components are fixed with bone cement. Bearing choices can include a ceramic bearing or highly cross-linked polyethylene, depending on your anatomy, activity and surgeon’s assessment.

The operation is often considered when hip disease causes persistent pain, stiffness or difficulty walking despite appropriate non-surgical care. Hip osteoarthritis is one possible reason. The implant changes the joint surfaces, but muscles and surrounding tissues still need rehabilitation to regain control and confidence.

Before surgery, arrange help at home, practise the exercises recommended by your team and discuss medicines and dental or infection concerns. Afterward, use walking aids as directed, protect the wound, and perform your exercises consistently. Learn the movement precautions specific to your surgical approach. Progress from short walks to strengthening and daily activities according to your rehabilitation plan. [Hip Resurfacing](/treatments/joint-replacement/hip-resurfacing/) is a different joint-preserving option for selected people.

Seek urgent care for sudden severe hip pain with a shortened or rotated leg, inability to bear weight, chest pain or breathlessness. Contact your surgical team for fever, increasing wound redness or drainage, calf swelling or pain, new numbness, or a sudden decline after initial improvement.

Ask which implant materials are suitable, how the components will be fixed, which movements to avoid, how walking will progress, and what signs could indicate infection, clotting or dislocation.